Carl Doy and “Jasmine Flower”

Carl Doy is a renowned New Zealand pianist, composer, and arranger. He is widely recognized as one of his country’s most commercially successful musicians, having sold over two million albums worldwide. Best known for his soothing, accessible style—most notably demonstrated in his immensely popular Piano by Candlelight series—Doy excels at blending easy-listening classical crossover, pop standards, and romantic cinematic arrangements.

“Jasmine Flower” (known natively as Mo Li Hua) is one of China’s most famous and beloved traditional folk songs. Originating in the Jiangsu province during the Qing Dynasty, the melody dates back centuries and has evolved into an unofficial cultural anthem for China. Its graceful, pentatonic melody captures the delicate beauty, purity, and fragrance of the jasmine flower, making it a globally recognized piece of Chinese heritage.

The Collaboration

Carl Doy recorded a sweeping, instrumental arrangement of “Jasmine Flower” featuring members of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Released on his album East West, Doy’s version bridges distinct cultural aesthetics by combining the rich, emotive phrasing of traditional Chinese folk music with lush, cinematic Western orchestral arrangements and gentle piano styling. His interpretation honors the timeless elegance of the original melody while offering a peaceful, modern listening experience.